AmeriSpec Inspection Services of Dartmouth and Halifax

In honour of #BlackHistoryMonth, it's important to look at the accomplishments of some of the greatest black figures in history. Did you know you can visit the House Museums of important black figures such as Frederick Douglass, one of the most important voices in the battle against slavery, legendary musician Louis Armstrong, and Alexander Twilight, believed to be the first African-American person ever to receive a degree from a college or university in the United States? You can check out more of the homes at the list below. If you'd like to donate to any of the museums, make sure to visit their websites.

Thinking about buying a home as a first-time homeowner? NerdWallet has some great tips to consider when looking to purchase your first home that will help make things easier when making such an important decision. For instance, did you know that many places offer first-time homebuyer credits, assistance programs, and tax credits that can help with down payment assistance or lower interest rates? Check out the article to learn even more about what important steps you can take to make the process easier and more affordable! #homeowner

Can you really cut down on energy storage while adding style simultaneously? Bob Vila has just the answer for your home - thermal curtains! These ingenious creations are made with multiple layers of fabric with sizable padding that prevents air from escaping into your home. They act as an extra layer of insulation that can prevent leaks and save you money in the long-run. Plus, these curtains don't sacrifice design in exchange for functionality. Ultimately, thermal curtains are still a fantastic solution for blocking sunlight, reducing noise, and of course, maintaining privacy.

We’re getting ready for 2021!

Just because it's icy cold, doesn't mean you should hold off buying a home in winter! The Spruce has 7 great reasons why you should consider buying a home at this time of year. From fewer buyers to seasonal price drops, read this insightful article to discover why winter might just be the best time to begin an exciting new chapter in your life. Point number 4 is so appealing, you'll want to start making arrangements immediatley.

New Year's Resolution failed already? We have a new one you can truly stick to! If your toolbox is overflowing with tools you simply don't use, instead of selling them or throwing them out, check to see if a local charity will accept them instead. Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity Canada and KMS Tools & Equipment are among those who accept used tools for building a better tomorrow. You'll be amazed at your newfound toolbox space. Just make sure to check ahead, as some items cannot be accepted for safety reasons such as used ladders among other select items.

From our AmeriSpec Canada family to yours, Happy New Year everybody! After what has been a challenging year, we want to say a special thank you to our clients for their ongoing relationship with us, and all our staff for their hard work, professionalism and support every day they come to work. To our valued clients and amazing staff, we hope that 2021 brings peace and prosperity to your entire family. #happynewyears

We all know about condensation, especially now it's winter. But did you know the extent of damage condensation can cause to windows and trim finishes inside your home? To tackle this threat head on, Family Handyman has two useful ways to do so. From everyday habitual changes like using the bath fan when showering to new maintenance like adding better glazing, learn what else you can do to keep condensation at bay here.

No matter what holiday you celebrate, everybody here at AmeriSpec Canada wants to say season's greetings! We thank our loyal valued clients for their continued support and our tireless staff for their first-class dedication and commitment. We hope your holiday season is one of cheerfulness, peace, and reflection. #happyholidays

With many people working from home for the foreseeable future, it’s important to have a space you can work in efficiently. It also needs to be a quiet, clean, well-lit space for meetings and video conferences. Using our tips, you won’t need to move homes or turn your spare bedroom into a home office. You can take the space you’re already using and implement some small changes to make it both professional and pretty. Read our latest blog here:

Deer-ry me! You don't expect to come face to face with a magnificent mammal like this when attempting to inspect your average attic. This photo was submitted to us from AmeriSpec of Niagara Home Inspector, David Furry. Tell us what unique features make your house your home. Comment below! #homeinspections

If you're a homeowner, you're probably familiar with the term "annual maintenance checklist". Now cold season is coming, one item requiring your urgent attention is furnace tune-ups. It's the best way to ensure your heating system doesn't breakdown when you need it most. For as little as $100 to $150, you can get peace of mind over your furnace surviving November, December, and long beyond. Today's Homeowner explain what you can expect from your typical furnace tune-up appointment.

So you've decided to create an energy-efficient home. But what are the benefits of going green and how soon will you realize a difference? Ultimately, some things are instant and others are not. When you no longer feel drafts by your windows or notice rooms have even temperatures, upgrades like better insulation and air sealing are working. Other benefits are more long-term. For instance, lower energy bills and increased home value represent some of the secondary benefits of ...installing ENERGY STAR appliances or lighting. If you're wondering how to get started, book an AmeriSpec Home Energy Evaluation. Our Natural Resources Canada trained and licensed Home Energy Advisors will determine the major areas of current energy use and waste in your home. After that, they'll provide suggestions about the steps you could take to save hundreds of dollars a year.

Nowadays, first time homebuyers are more empowered than ever before. In the past, a quick handshake and swift viewing of a property may have been considered enough to say "we'll take it". Now, Infrared Thermography is helping homebuyers to make the best and most informed decisions possible. It might sound fancy but Infrared Thermography simply uses camera-like imaging to detect surface temperatures and problems not visible to the naked eye. Not only does this service ident...ify cold spots in homes, it can identify sources of mold, roof leaks and electrical issues too. Remember, AmeriSpec offers Infrared Thermography services at select franchises nationwide. When you're deciding whether to buy a home, take advantage of thermal imaging to make sure you get the full picture about a property's true condition, not just half of it. https://www.amerispec.ca/services/home-inspections/

November is Radon Action Month! Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and the colourless, tasteless and odourless gas is impossible to detect without performing a radon test in your home. AmeriSpec has been an industry leader in performing various air quality tests, including radon tests, for over 30 years. Protect your family, your health and your home by booking a radon test with us today! #HomeInspection

Now fall is here, every Canadian homeowner is reaching for the thermostat to heat their homes during colder weather. But every time you reach for that square or rectangle on your wall, have you thought about the impact that the annual heating and cooling of your home is having on the environment? Well, according to The Canadian Real Estate Association/L'Association canadienne de l'immeuble, 17% of all energy used in Canada goes towards running our homes. This contributes ...to 14% of Canada's greenhouse gas (emissions). As our world becomes more and more environmentally conscious, the solution for many is making our homes more energy-efficient. It's not as difficult as you think either. From better insulation to installing ENERGY STAR appliances, learn what 7 energy-efficiency improvements you can make, and much more here. https://www.crea.ca//Homeowners-Guide_Energy-Efficiency_En See more

A. One of the neat features of a smart thermostat is energy tracking, which allows you to go into your account and see exactly how much energy your household is... using and when. Using this information, you can make adjustments to your family’s routine and behaviour to reduce energy use even further. The savings just keep going, because now, smart thermostats are up to $100 off instantly in-store or online. It’s the perfect time to make your home a little smarter. Find a retailer near you. efficiencyns.ca/smart See more

Plants can spruce up any home but some people are put off by regular maintenance. But listen up! Real Simple have curated this list of 16 low-maintenance indoor houseplants that'll survive all year-round. Not only can plants like the Chinese Evergreen, Moth Orchid, Maidenhair Fern and Moss Terrarium survive the upcoming winter, they can turn lackluster spaces into beautiful earthy areas. Tell us, which plants do you keep all year-round and recommend? Comment below.

Congratulations Nova Scotia! Our province continues to be recognized as a national leader in #EnergyEfficiency ranking 3rd in Efficiency Canada’s 2020 Provincia...l Energy Efficiency Scorecard. To-date over 400,000 program participants have taken part in Efficiency Nova Scotia programs that’s over $2 billion in energy savings and over 1 million tonnes of CO2 avoided. Let’s keep it up! See more

Fall is the time to give your home its annual physical before winter's harsh weather sets in. AmeriSpec offers services that can give you the peace of mind you need before icy weather rules. Whether you're a homeowner or a prospective buyer or seller, we can provide solutions that make preparing for winter that much easier. We provide everything from certified home inspections to home energy evaluations and healthy home services. AmeriSpec can help make the transition from summer to fall a pain-free experience for both your wallet and well-being. Be prepared and get a quote today.

Fall's colder weather and darker evenings call for one thing. Switching the heating on and snuggling up on your sofa with a movie or sports. But regular cozy nights like these can take their toll, especially at this time of year. The issue? Heating bills that skyrocket from seemingly nowhere. Fortunately for you, these 5 everyday tips to slash heating bills from Today's Homeowner can help. Take it from us - tip number 3 will leave you wondering why you've put up with your current solution for so long!

Cycling has seen a surge in popularity during the pandemic. It's been a simple and effective way to get some fresh air while decreasing your carbon footprint too. But with colder weather coming, you'll need a handy spot to store your trusty two wheels during winter. Fear not, Bob Vila recommends the following options: - Hang bicycles from a bike hook. If you've got a small space, hooks can be an easy way to securely hang a bicycle against the wall. - Want to hang it flat a...gainst the wall? There are a number of horizontal mounts that can do the trick. - You can even store the bike in your home with a Gladiator Hook, that hangs from your ceiling! So, while it might seem like a chore to find space for your bike, keeping it securely stored and out of your entryways is the best way to get set for your spring rides.

You know those tricky jobs around the home. The ones you've been putting off. Well they just got a whole load easier! From painting walls to snaking a drain, Real Simple have you covered with some simple, easy-to-understand how-to guides. Soon, you'll discover that achieving that perfect fresh coat of paint means cleaning, using painter's tape, and priming. For fixing pesky holes in drywall, all you need is spackle and some matching paint. Remember, it's easy when you know how!

"Treaties have purpose. They define. They forge. They build. Treaties are living documents. They have shaped this province and this nation. They shape our way o...f life. Treaties affect us all. We are all Treaty People." Treaty Day is celebrated today, Oct. 1, in Nova Scotia. The day honours the relationship and important contributions of the Mi’kmaq in Nova Scotia. Treaty Education Nova Scotia creates opportunities for Nova Scotians to learn about the Mi’kmaq, their inherent Aboriginal and Treaty rights, and our shared history. It promotes an understanding of the Peace and Friendship treaties as historical and living documents. Learn more at https://novascotia.ca/treaty-education/

A leaky basement is a nightmare any time, especially now colder weather's on the way. Basements leak when the soil surrounding the foundation becomes loose, allowing water to percolate through. AmeriSpec's qualified inspectors can identify problems before they get much worse. This ensures leaks don't turn into expensive renovations. With over 30 years of experience and thousands of satisfied customers, AmeriSpec is the industry leader when it comes to identifying problems in basements and foundations. Call 866-284-6010 for your quote today.

AmeriSpec is your one-stop-shop for everything maintenance inspection-related. If you're a longtime homeowner, AmeriSpec can perform a thorough inspection that will determine any issues that need to be fixed - whether that's leaky roofs, deck issues, downspouts, and more. Now we're into fall, don't sleep on winter's arrival. An AmeriSpec maintenance inspection can help you identify any areas that need fixing before that famous Canadian snowfall hits and wreaks havoc. Call 866-284-6010 to book your inspection today.

We are proud to announce that AmeriSpec Inspection Services of Toronto West. Etobicoke & Mississauga and AmeriSpec Inspection Services of Muskoka, Parry Sound & Simcoe have partnered with One Tree Planted. An amazing non-profit organization helping global reforestation. AmeriSpec has pledged to plant one tree for every inspection completed.

Planning on adding a new coat of paint to your home? Unsure when's the best time to do it? Real Simple says outdoor paint jobs work best when it's 18-30 degrees Celsius. Now we're approaching fall, there's no better time to tackle this task. Warmer, humid conditions help bond colours to your favourite places, while colder temps make it harder for paint to stay put.

On first glance, you might think this photo of a wine serving tray was taken upside down. In reality, it's actually a super cool light fixture doubling up as storage for wine glasses. In all our years inspecting thousands of Canadian homes, we've uncovered some ultra unique home features just like this. This one came courtesy of AmeriSpec owner and operator, David Furry. What home features are you most proud of? Tell us about them in the comments below.

September 7 is Labour Day across Canada. A time where we all take a break from everyday life to celebrate the hard work Canadians put in throughout the work year. Labour Day was conceived to celebrate the achievement of workers, who vigorously fought for worker rights and better work conditions amidst the labour union movement. Remember, many services including the post office, government buildings and retail stores are closed today. Be sure to check ahead of time if you plan on running errands or going out. Tell us how you're celebrating Labour Day in the comments below.